Movable platform and actuating attachment

ABSTRACT

Disclosed herein is a movable platform (MP) for moving freight during cross-dock operations. The MP comprises a mechanical actuation assembly used to deploy a plurality of roller assemblies used for moving the MP. Also disclosed is an actuating attachment used to deploy the mechanical actuation assembly of the MP. The actuating attachment can be attached to a conveyance vehicle, such as a forklift, or built in to an automated guided vehicle.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.16/874,510, filed May 14, 2020, which is a continuation of U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 16/142,673, now U.S. Pat. No. 10,654,616, which isa continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/799,194, filedOct. 31, 2017, now U.S. Pat. No. 10,124,927, which claims priority toU.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/414,952, filed Oct. 31,2016.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention provides a movable platform (MP) used to transferfreight in and out of a semi-trailer in one move. More particularly, thepresent invention provides a mobile MP that can be maneuvered through awarehouse using an actuating attachment.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present invention can be utilized in any standard or customwarehouse. Particularly, the MP of the present invention can be utilizedwith the systems and methods described in related U.S. Pat. No.9,367,827, issued Jun. 14, 2016.

BACKGROUND

The trucking industry, specifically the segment consisting ofFull-Truckload (FTL) and Less-than-truckload (LTL), is a segment of theshipping industry that ships a wide array of freight. The shipment sizescan vary from an individual item consisting of one piece to a fulltruckload consisting of several pieces. FTL freight is typically handledonly once as it is loaded into a semi-trailer at the shipper's locationand unloaded at the consignee's location. In the LTL industry, freightis commonly handled multiple times, with the shipper loading the freightinto a semi-trailer, then the freight is returned to a local freightterminal to be unloaded/loaded into a another trailer to be routed tothe destination. This process, commonly known as a hub-and-spokenetwork, is used to increase the efficiency of the operation byincreasing density.

The traditional method of loading freight into a semi-trailer is to backa semi-trailer to a raised dock and unload each piece/pallet using aforklift. A 53′ semi-trailer van can hold up to 30 pallets on the floorof the trailer. To unload a loaded semi-trailer conventionally, itrequires a single forklift driver to drive into the trailer to pick-upand remove each pallet. During this unloading process, a driver couldtake up to 30 trips into the trailer to remove each pallet. This processis typically completed utilizing 1 forklift driver but it is possible toutilize 2 forklift drivers to unload a trailer simultaneously.

As should be apparent, this process is wasteful in that the forklift isoften not conveying cargo (empty carries). Also, because the trailer isno connected to the dock, the forklift driver must be careful each timethat they enter the trailer. This further reduces the speed of theprocess. Therefore, there is clearly a need for a movable platform whichcan be easily unloaded from a trailer in a single move without theforklift driver having to enter the trailer. As will be made apparent inthe following disclosure, the present invention provides a solution forthese aforementioned problems.

SUMMARY

The present invention provides a MP for moving freight during cross-dockoperations. The MP comprises a mechanical actuation assembly used todeploy a plurality of roller assemblies used for moving the MP. Alsodisclosed is an actuating attachment used to deploy the mechanicalactuation assembly of the MP. The actuating attachment can be attachedto a conveyance vehicle, such as a forklift, or built in to an automatedguided vehicle.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

These and other advantages of the present invention will be readilyunderstood with the reference to the following specifications andattached drawings wherein:

FIG. 1A depicts a perspective view of the movable platform.

FIG. 1B depicts a bottom view of the MP.

FIG. 2A depicts a perspective view of the frame of the MP.

FIG. 2B depicts an enhanced view of the front of the frame of the MP.

FIG. 2C depicts an enhanced view of the underside of the front of theframe of the MP.

FIG. 2D depicts an enhanced view of the underside of the frame of the MPshowing the axel channels.

FIG. 2E depicts an enhanced view of the underside of the frame of the MPshowing the fixed roller assemblies.

FIG. 2F depicts an alternate embodiment for the rear of the frame of theMP.

FIG. 3 depicts a view of the mechanical actuation assembly incombination with a portion of the frame.

FIG. 4A depicts an enhanced view of the T-bar and drawbar of themechanical actuation assembly.

FIG. 4B depicts an alternate embodiment showing a lunette eye attachedto the drawbar instead of a T-bar.

FIG. 5A depicts the connection between the drawbar, the connectionplate, and a ramp connector.

FIG. 5B depicts an alternate construction for the connection plate.

FIG. 6A depicts the connection between the ramp connectors and a rampguide.

FIG. 6B depicts an alternate construction for the ramp guide.

FIG. 7 depicts a view of a roller assembly in isolation.

FIG. 8 depicts the positional relationships of the mechanical actuationassembly and roller assemblies within the frame (in phantom).

FIG. 9 depicts a lengthwise post to show the positional relation of aramp guide to a roller axel prior to rollers being deployed.

FIG. 10 depicts a bottom view of a front of the MP showing theconnection plate moved to a deployed position.

FIG. 11 depicts the actuation of the roller assemblies by the mechanicalactuation assembly.

FIGS. 12A-12D depict various views of the actuating attachment used todeploy the mechanical actuation assembly of the MP.

FIGS. 13A-13B depict a hydraulic caster assembly in undeployed anddeployed positions, respectively.

FIGS. 14A-14B depict the hydraulically actuated hook in undeployed anddeployed positions, respectively.

FIGS. 15A-15B depict an alternate embodiment of an actuating attachment.

FIGS. 16A-16H depict a second alternate embodiment of an actuatingattachment.

FIGS. 17A-17H depict a third alternate embodiment of an actuatingattachment.

FIG. 18A depicts a schematic for a first embodiment of a MP collisionavoidance sensing system.

FIG. 18B depicts a schematic for a second embodiment of a MP collisionavoidance sensing system.

FIGS. 19A-19B depict views of a female quick mate (QM) connector.

FIG. 20 depicts a view of the female QM connector attached to an MP.

FIGS. 21A-21B depict views of a male QM connector.

FIG. 22 depicts a view of the male QM connector attached to an actuatingattachment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described hereinbelow with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the followingdescription, well-known functions or constructions are not described indetail because they may obscure the invention in unnecessary detail.While the present invention is generally directed to LTL operations foruse in the trucking industry, the teachings may be applied to othershipping industries, just as those by air, sea, and rail. Therefore, theteachings should not be constructed as being limited to only thetrucking industry.

Referring first to FIG. 1A, depicted is a perspective view of MP 100used to convey freight in and out of trailers. Generally, MP 100comprises frame 102, decking 104, and mechanical actuation assembly 106.MP 100 preferably has a height of 4″ or less when resting on the groundand 5″ or less when rollers are engaged to limit impact on load capacityin a trailer. MP 100 is designed to be loaded with up to 24,000 poundsof freight. MP 100 can be raised without the forklift operator gettingoff the forklift via the actuating attachment and vice versa. MP 100 isdesigned to be conveyed with a standard 4,000 pound capacity forklift tounload/load MP 100 in and out of a trailer. Other conveyance vehicles,such as automated guided vehicles (AGVs), can also be used toautomatically convey the MP 100 during cross-dock operations.

Empty MPs 100 can be stacked up to 8 high in a pup trailer, allowingmore economical shipping from the manufacturer or for repositioning ofMPs 100 from one hub/spoke to another. Generally, MP 100 is 26′ inlength, allowing it to fit into a standard pup trailer which has aninterior length of 27.5′ or two into a van trailer which has an interiorlength of 52.5′. Preferably, the width of MP 100 can be modified to fiteither a roll door trailer or a swing door trailer. It should beapparent to one of ordinary skill in the art that these dimensions canbe modified to fit any global standard of trailer or for any customtrailer.

FIG. 1B depicts the underside of MP 100 to show additional features. Aplurality of roller assemblies 108 can be raised/lowered by mechanicalactuation assembly 106 as will be described later. A rear portion of theMP 100 comprises a plurality of fixed rollers 110 that are alwaysdeployed. However, it should be apparent to one of ordinary skill in theart that fixed rollers 110 could be replaced by a roller assembly 108and connected to mechanical actuation assembly 106.

Frame 102 provides the structural support for MP 100. Frame 102 ismostly constructed from rectangular or square tubular segments which arewelded together to form frame 102. Decking 104 is preferably alightweight material, such as plywood or plastic, which prevents smallerfreight from falling through frame 102 when MP 100 is in transport. Theframe 102 and decking 104 are designed to allow a standard 4,000 lb.forklift to drive on MP 100 unload/load freight conventionally. Itshould be apparent that decking 104 may also be a metal mesh or othermaterial if weight of MP 100 is a priority.

Mechanical actuation assembly 106, which will be described in moredetail later, is used to raise or lower the roller assemblies 108 of MP100 by exerting a lateral pulling force on T-bar 112. The majority ofmechanical actuation assembly 106 resides within frame 102 and onlyT-bar 112 is visible from the top view shown in FIG. 1A. FIG. 1B alsodepicts connection plate 114 which primarily transmits the force fromT-bar 112 to the additional components of mechanical actuation assembly106 located within frame 102.

In some embodiments, frame 102 further comprises rub rail 116 locatedalong the opposing lengthwise edges of frame 102. Rub rail 116 ispreferably a ¼″ plate raised above the decking 104 which helps torelease MP 100 from forklift blades and to prevent freight fromshifting. Rub rail 116 may further comprise cutouts 118 along a top orside of rub rails 116. Cutouts 118 can be used to secure freight to MP100 with straps or webbing.

Adjacent rub rail 116 at the corners of MP 100 are a plurality ofbumpers 120 having angled edges (e.g., 45°). Bumpers 120 are preferablyreplaceable and made from a plastic or other softer material. Bumpers120 allow for easier loading and unloading of MP 100 by helping to guideMP 100 into and out of a trailer.

Frame 102 may also comprise a plurality of vertical post pockets 122into which vertical posts (not shown) can be secured. A modular deckingsystem comprising a combination of vertical posts, engagement members,and decks that can be placed on the vertical posts to transport freightis described in U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 62/414,967, filedOct. 31, 2016, the entire content of which is hereby incorporated byreference in its entirety. Vertical post pockets 122 are preferablybolted or welded to an exterior of frame 102

FIG. 2A depicts a perspective view of the frame 102 shown in isolationwithout decking 104 or mechanical actuation assembly 106. As depicted inFIG. 2A, frame 102 generally comprises four lengthwise members 202 and aplurality of smaller cross members 204. Lengthwise members 202 and crossmembers 204 are preferably rectangular or square tubular metal segmentswhich are welded together to form the majority of frame 102.

Frame 102 also comprises three roller covers 206 which cover rollerassemblies 108 and fixed rollers 110. A welded or bolted metal coveringis preferably used in this section instead of decking 104 to ensure thatroller assemblies 108 and fixed rollers 110 do not become damaged whenfreight is placed on MP 100.

FIG. 2B depicts an enhanced view of the front of frame 102. Similar toroller covers 206, connection plate 114 is also covered by connectionplate cover 208 to protect mechanical actuation assembly 106. Attachmentconnectors 210, located on the front surface of frame 102, allow hooks(shown later) of the actuating attachment 1200 to be connected to MP100. Drawbar post 212 houses the drawbar (shown later) which connectsT-bar 112 to connection plate 114.

FIG. 2C depicts a bottom view of the front of frame 102. Underneathplate cover 208 are located a plurality of horizontal slots 214 throughdrawbar post 212 and lengthwise members 202, forming a channel theentire width of MP 100. The length of horizontal slots 214 limits thelateral movement of mechanical actuation assembly 106 by limiting thelateral movement of connection plate 114 within the channel.

FIG. 2D depicts the underside of a single roller cover 206. The otherroller cover 206 (not shown) has the same construction. Each lengthwisemember 202, underneath single roller cover 206, includes axel channels216 there through for accommodating the axel of roller assembly 108.Axel channels 216 preferably have an obround or stadium shape to allowthe circular axel of roller assemblies 108 to move vertically withinaxel channel 216 as will be shown later.

FIG. 2E depicts the rear of the underside of frame 102. For clarity,only a single fixed roller 110 is depicted to show the geometry of fixedroller assembly 218. Each fixed roller assembly 218 is formed from twoparallel plates having a hole there through to accommodate a singlefixed roller 110 as shown in FIG. 2E.

FIG. 2F depicts an alternate embodiment for the rear of frame 102. Here,a drawbar 220 connected to a lunette eye 222 (or other attachment) isprovided on the rear of frame 102 to help with conveyance of MP 100and/or to help secure MP 100 in a trailer.

FIG. 3 depicts a perspective view of the mechanical actuation assembly106 within a cutaway portion of frame 102. Mechanical actuation assembly106 generally comprises T-bar 112, drawbar 302, connection plate 114,ramp connectors 304, ramp guides 306, and roller assemblies 108.

FIG. 4A depicts an enhanced view of the connection between T-bar 112 anddrawbar 302. T-bar 112 is preferably bolted or welded to drawbar 302.FIG. 4B depicts an alternate embodiment in which T-bar 112 is replacedby lunette eye 402 which is bolted and/or welded onto drawbar 302. Inthis embodiment, the end of lunette eye 402 has notch 404 (or raisedsurface) which mates with a corresponding raised surface in drawbar post212 to maintain mechanical actuation assembly 106 in a deployedposition.

Referring back to FIG. 3, drawbar 302 has a cross-section slightlysmaller than that of drawbar post 212 to allow drawbar 302 to freelyslide from a first position to a second position within drawbar post212. Connection plate 114 generally has a wing-shaped construction andpasses through a center of drawbar 302. The remainder of connectionplate 114 passes through slots 214 contained in frame 102 as shown inFIG. 2C.

FIG. 5A depicts the connection between drawbar 302, connection plate114, and ramp connector 304. As shown, brackets 502 are bolted toconnection plate 114. A bolt 504 is then placed through an opening 506in ramp connector 304. Connection plate 114 contains a total of fourbrackets 502 for each of the four ramp connectors 304 which are housedin lengthwise posts 202 as depicted in FIGS. 3 and 8.

An alternative embodiment of connection plate 114 is depicted in FIG.5B. In this embodiment, connection plate 114 is formed from first plate508 and second plate 510 joined together by bolt plate 512.

FIG. 6A depicts the connection between two ramp connectors 304 and rampguide 306. As shown, each end of ramp guide 306 comprises connectoropenings 602. Ramp connectors 304 are inserted into connector openings602 and a bolt 604 is passed through opening 506 to connector rampconnector 304 to ramp guide 306. This connection is similar to thatbetween brackets 502 and ramp connector 304 already described.

The upper surface 606 of ramp guide 306 is flat and covered with alubricant (or coating) so that it can freely slide laterally along theupper inner surface of each lengthwise post 202 as mechanical actuationassembly 106 is actuated. Preferably, the lubricant is Mystik Grease No.1 manufactured by Mystik® Lubricants.

The lower surface 608 of ramp guide 306 comprises first surface 610,ramp 612, and second surface 614. Ramp 610 is preferably angled 4-6°from the plane of first surface, but more preferably 4.8°. First surface610 preferably has a total length of 2-3″ and second surface 612preferably has a length of 1-2″. Ramp guide 306 preferably has a totalheight of 1.5-2″ at the end adjacent the first surface 610 and a totalheight of approximately 1-1.5″ at the end adjacent the second surface610. Further, ramp guide 306 preferably has a total width of 2-4″, butmore preferably 3″. As will be depicted later, the axel of rollerassembly 108 is located beneath second surface 614 when the mechanicalactuation assembly 106 is not deployed and below first surface 610 whenthe mechanical actuation assembly 106 is deployed.

FIG. 6B depicts an alternate embodiment of ramp guides 306. In thisembodiment, the connector openings 602 are provided as bores inconnector members 616. Connector members 616 are joined to ramp member618 via a bolted connection. The lower surface of ramp member 618contains first surface 610, ramp 612, and second surface 614.

FIG. 7 depicts roller assembly 108 in isolation. Roller assembly 108generally comprises a plurality of rollers 702 which are evenly spacedabout roller axel 704. Each roller 702 can independently rotate aboutroller axel 704. Roller axel 704 fits through axel channels 216 in frame102 (FIG. 2D). Because roller axel 704 is circular and axel channels 216are obround or stadium shaped, the roller axel 704 can move verticallywithin axel channels 216 to deploy rollers 702. FIG. 8 depicts thepositional relationships of mechanical actuation assembly 106 and rollerassemblies 108 within frame 102.

FIG. 9 depicts a lengthwise post 202 in phantom to show the positionalrelation of a ramp guide 306 to roller axel 704 prior to rollers 702being deployed. As shown, second surface 614 is spaced apart from rolleraxel 704, allowing roller axel 704 and rollers 702 to move up/downwithin axel channels 216. Thus, when MP 100 is placed on the ground inthis configuration, the bottom of rollers 702 are free to become levelwith a bottom of frame 102, preventing MP 100 from being conveyed.

The steps utilized to actuate mechanical actuation assembly 106 will nowbe described. First, using an actuating attachment to be describedlater, a lateral force is exerted on T-bar 112 in direction A to move itto the position depicted in FIG. 10. The amount that T-bar 112 can beextended is limited by the width of slots 214 (e.g., the movement ofconnection plate 114 is limited).

As shown in FIG. 11, the movement of T-bar 112 is translated to eachramp guide 306 through ramp connectors 304 (in each lengthwise post202), drawbar 302, and connection plate 114. This causes a downwardforce on roller axel 704 by ramp 612 and second surface 614 as rampguide 306 is moved forward (in direction A), thus deploying rollers 702.The force on roller axel 704 can be reversed by causing T-bar 112 tomove opposite direction A.

Actuating Mechanism

As has been described, a force must be exerted on T-bar 112 in order todeploy rollers 702, allowing MP 100 to be conveyed. To accomplish this,the MP 100 must remain stationary as the force is applied to T-bar 112.Otherwise, the MP 100 will begin rolling forward before rollers 702 arefully deployed. Therefore, described next is an actuating attachmentthat can be utilized to deploy rollers 702 and convey MP 100 in awarehouse using a standard forklift. The actuating attachment can alsobe made integral to an AGV to allow for automated moving of MPs 100 asdescribed in U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 62/415,054, filedOct. 31, 2016, the entire content of which is hereby incorporated byreference in its entirety.

FIG. 12A depicts a perspective view of actuating attachment 1200.Actuating attachment 1200 is formed from two sections: conveyancevehicle section 1202 and MP section 1204. Conveyance vehicle section1202 is used to connect actuating attachment 1200 to a conveyancevehicle, such as a forklift, using forklift slots 1206 which are shapedto accommodate and retain the tines of a standard forklift. Conveyancevehicle section 1202 further comprises platform 1208 having power supply1210 and hydraulic power unit 1212 placed thereon. The power forhydraulic power unit 1212 can be supplied from either power supply 1210or directly from the conveyance vehicle (e.g., through a connector).

Conveyance vehicle section 1202 further comprises vertical pivot joint1214 which allows conveyance vehicle section 1202 to pivot with respectMP section 1204. Vertical pivot joint 1214 allows MP 100 to easily beconveyed by a conveyance vehicle, especially during turns. Additionaldetails of vertical pivot joint 1214 will be described later.

MP section 1204 comprises MP frame 1216 which connects MP section 1204to conveyance vehicle section 1202; two hydraulic caster assemblies1218; static hooks 1220; and hydraulically actuated hook 1222.Hydraulics junction box 1224 is connected to hydraulics power unit 1212on conveyance vehicle section 1202 (e.g., through tubing) and providesthe hydraulics used to operate hydraulic caster assemblies 1218 andhydraulically actuated hook 1222.

Static hooks 1220 are sized and spaced to mate with attachmentconnectors 210 depicted in FIG. 2B. Specifically, attachment connectors210 have a lip along their upper surface which engages with static hooks1220. Similarly, hydraulically actuated hook 1222 is sized to mate withT-bar 112 and is used to exert the required force on mechanicalactuation assembly 106 as will be described later.

FIG. 12B depicts a side view of actuating attachment 1200 and FIG. 12Cdepicts a rear perspective view of actuating attachment 1200.Specifically, FIG. 12B provides a better view of vertical pivot joint1214 and a partial view of conveyance vehicle locking mechanism 1226. Asdepicted in FIG. 12C, conveyance vehicle locking mechanism 1226comprises hydraulic cylinder 1228 which is connected to conveyancevehicle section 1202 at a first end by pivot joint 1230. A second end ofhydraulic cylinder 1228 is connected to cylinder 1232 by pivot joint1234. The ends of cylinder 1232 are connected to forklift slots 1206.Further cylinder 1232 is also connected to locking bars 1236. Ashydraulics supplied from hydraulic power unit 1212 through tubing 1238cause hydraulic cylinder 1228 to contract as shown in FIG. 12D, cylinder1232 and locking bars 1236 are rotated upward. Specifically, the lockingbars 1236 mate with cutouts in the tines of the forklift placed intoforklift slots 1206, preventing the conveyance vehicle from disengagingfrom conveyance vehicle section 1202.

FIG. 13A depicts a hydraulic caster assembly 1218 in its retractedposition. Hydraulic caster assembly 1218 comprises frame connector 1302,vertical shaft 1304 (shown in phantom), hydraulically actuated sleeve1306, caster 1308, and tubing 1310. Frame connector 1302 connectshydraulic caster assembly 1218 to MP frame 1216 and allows caster 1308to be deployed and retracted. Hydraulically actuated sleeve 1306 isconnected to vertical shaft 1304 in a sliding connection. A first end ofhydraulically actuated sleeve 1306 is fixed within vertical shaft 1304by fixing pin 1312. Tubing 1310 provides hydraulics from hydraulicsjunction box 1224 to deploy/retract hydraulically actuated sleeve 1306and caster 1308.

FIG. 13B depicts a front view of actuating attachment 1200 having bothhydraulic caster assemblies 1218 fully deployed. As shown, the expansionof hydraulically actuated sleeve 1306 causes caster 1308 to be deployedbelow a bottom surface of MP frame 1216. The upward movement of MP frame1216 causes static hooks 1220 to actively engage attachment connectors210 on MP 100. Further, this also causes hydraulically actuated hook1222 to actively engage/lock T-bar 112. Hydraulically actuated hook 1222can then be contracted to cause the actuation of mechanical actuationassembly 106 as has already been described.

Referring now to FIG. 14A, depicted is a bottom view of actuatingattachment 1200 to show vertical pivot joint 1214, MP frame 1216, andhydraulically actuated hook 1222 in more detail. Vertical pivot joint1214 consists of inner cylinder 1402 fixed to conveyance vehicle section1202 and an outer cylinder 1404 forming a part of MP frame 1216. A ballbearing assembly 1406 located between inner cylinder 1402 and outercylinder 1404 allows MP frame 1216 to freely rotate about inner cylinder1402. It should be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art thatother types of joints (e.g., ball and socket), may also be utilized.

MP frame 1216 further comprises central shaft 1408 (shown in phantom) inwhich hydraulically actuated hook 1222 is located. A fixing pin 1410 ispassed through central shaft 1408 and a first end of hydraulicallyactuated hook 1222 preventing movement of the first end of hydraulicallyactuated hook 1222 with respect to central shaft 1408.

Hydraulically actuated hook 1222 is shown fully contracted in FIG. 14B.As shown, the hook is retracted into central shaft 1408. Whenhydraulically actuated hook 1222 is connected to T-bar 112 andhydraulically actuated hook 1222 is retracted (as shown in FIGS.14A-14B), this causes mechanical actuation assembly 106, andsubsequently roller assemblies 108, to become deployed.

The deployment of casters 1308 provides a number of functions. First,the deployment of casters 1308 causes a front portion of MP 100 to belifted off the ground. For this reason, only two sets of rollerassemblies 108 are needed in MP 100, leading to a weight reduction.However, as already explained, the MP 100 can easily be modified toinclude any number of roller assemblies 108.

Casters 1308 are also connected on swivel joints (e.g., the casters have360° freedom of rotation). This allows the front of MP 100 to easily besteered in a warehouse by a conveyance vehicle, especially when loadedwith freight.

Additional Actuating Attachments

Different embodiments for actuating attachment 1200 will now bedescribed. For brevity, only the notable differences between thecurrently described embodiments and the actuating attachment of FIGS.12A-14B will be described. First, with reference to FIGS. 15A and 15B,shown in an embodiment of actuating attachment 1200 in which there is noseparation between conveyance vehicle section 1202 and MP section 1204(e.g., there is no vertical pivot joint 1214). In this embodiment ofactuating attachment 1200, a single hydraulic caster assembly 1218 ismounted between forklift slots 1206. A rear of actuating attachment 1200also contains conveyance vehicle locking mechanism 1226. Shelf 1502,mounted to forklift slots 1206, is used to house power supply 1210and/or hydraulic power unit 1212. A single fixed hook 1504 is providedin the front center of actuating attachment 1200 and two hydraulicallyactuated hooks 1506 are mounted to the sides of each forklift slots1206.

In order to use the actuating attachment with MP 100, forklift tineswould first be inserted into forklift slots 1206 and then conveyancevehicle locking mechanism 1226 would be activated to lock the forklifttines. Next, the forklift would lift the actuating attachment 1200 andconvey it to MP 100. It should be noted that this actuating attachment1200 is better suited for when T-bar 112 is replaced by lunette eye 402or other similar attachment.

Fixed hook 1504 is placed under the lunette eye 402 of MP 100 andhydraulically actuated caster assembly deploys caster 1308 so securelyfasten actuating attachment 1200 to MP 100. This also lifts the frontend of MP 100 off the ground slightly. Next hydraulically actuated hooks1506 are extended towards MP 100 and enter attachment connectors 210.The force suppled on MP 100 by hydraulically actuated hooks 1506 causesmechanical actuation assembly 106 to be deployed as has already beendescribed.

FIGS. 16A-16H depict another embodiment of actuating attachment 1200. Asdepicted, actuating attachment 1200 generally comprises forkliftconnection 1602, power supply 1604, hydraulic power unit 1606, casterhydraulic cylinder 1608, casters 1610, pushing hydraulic cylinders 1612,locking mechanism 1614, and hook 1616. Hydraulic power unit 1606,powered by power supply 1604, drives both caster hydraulic cylinder 1608and pushing hydraulic cylinders 1612. Power supply 1604 can either be abattery or a power supply connection from an external source, such asthe forklift. Pintle hook 1616 is first engaged with lunette eye 402 ofMP 100 (as described with reference to FIGS. 15A-15B) by maneuveringactuating attachment 1200 until the two interlock. Then, to actuatemechanical actuation assembly 106, the pushing hydraulic cylinders 1612are extended as depicted in FIGS. 16E and 16F. This causes a pullingforce to be exerted on mechanical actuation assembly 106 and rollerassemblies 108 become deployed. Next, caster hydraulic cylinder 1608 canbe extended, causing casters 1610 to pivot downward as depicted in FIGS.16A, 16G, and 16H. This causes the front end of MP 100 to becomeslightly raised off the ground and casters 1610 can be used to steer MP100 more easily. At this point, a fully loaded MP 100 can easily beconveyed to/from a trailer or around a warehouse by a standard 4,000pound and to allow for removing/inserting MP 100 out of an uneven (notlevel with dock) trailer.

For lighter loads on MP 100, only the casters 1610 need to be extendedand the MP 100 can be moved around similar to a wheelbarrow using fixedrollers 110 on MP 100. Further, instead of pushing hydraulic cylinders1612, other actuating means, such as a leadscrew or internal hydraulics,may be utilized.

FIGS. 17A-17H depict an alternate embodiment of actuating attachment1200. As depicted in FIG. 17A, actuating attachment 1200 generallycomprises forklift connection 1602, power supply 1604, hydraulic powerunit 1606, caster hydraulic cylinder 1608, swivel caster 1610, pushinghydraulic cylinders 1612, locking mechanism 1614, pintle hook 1616,guide lights 1702, and control box 1704. Hydraulic power unit 1606,powered by power supply 1604, drives both caster hydraulic cylinder 1608and pushing hydraulic cylinders 1612. In this embodiment, pushinghydraulic cylinders 1612 are contained within the frame of actuatingattachment 1200.

Power supply 1604 can either be a battery or a power supply connectionfrom an external source, such as the forklift. Pintle hook 1616 is firstengaged with lunette eye on MP 100 by maneuvering forklift attachment1200 until the two interlock. Then, to actuate mechanical actuationassembly 106, the pushing hydraulic cylinders 1612 are extended asdepicted in FIGS. 17E and 17F. This causes a pulling force to be exertedon the lunette eye 402 which actuates mechanical actuation assembly 106.Next, caster hydraulic cylinder 1608 can be extended, causing swivelcaster 1610 to pivot downward as depicted in FIGS. 17A, 17G, and 17H.This causes the front end of MP 100 to become slightly raised and swivelcaster 1610 can be used to turn MP 100 more easily. In this embodiment,swivel caster 1610 provides an increased turning radius because thesingle swivel caster 1610 can rotate in any direction.

Referring next to FIG. 18A, depicted is a first embodiment of MPCollision Avoidance (MPCA) sensing system 1800. The MPCA sensing system1800 comprises camera 1802 and proximity sensors 1804 located on a rearportion of MP 100 (e.g., near fixed rollers 110). Proximity sensors 1804may be any type of sensor capable of detecting collisions such asinductive, capacitive, photoelectric and ultrasonic. The purpose of theMPCA sensing system 1800 is to collect data such as, but not limited, tovideo, proximity of nearby objects and relay that information to theopposite end of the MP 100 (e.g., to the forklift driver).

FIG. 18A also depicts the wiring conduit 1806 for MPCA sensing system1800. MP 100 may be wired using any known methods. A distribution board1808 supplies power to camera 1802 and proximity sensors 1804. A femalequick mate (QM) connector 1810 is mounted to MP 100 and a male QMconnector 1812 is mounted to actuating attachment 1200. The male QMconnector 1812 and female QM connector 1810 are connected when MP 100 isbeing conveyed by actuating attachment 1200.

QM connectors 1810 and 1812 allow for a quick data and power connectionbetween actuating attachment 1200 and MP 100. QM connectors 1810 and1812 may be used to transfer data, video, and power from MP 100 viadistribution board 1808 and wiring conduit 1806 to the control box 1814on actuating attachment 1200.

Visual and auditory cues are outputted via high power LEDs (lights 1816)and speaker(s) 1818 on actuating attachment 1200. A direct correlationbetween the proximity of objects is made to the sound and visuals of thelights outputted by lights 1816 and/or speakers 1818. This helps theforklift driver know approximately how far away he is from an object.

Control box 1814 works as the brain of the MPCA sensing system 1800. Thecontrol box 1814 interprets input signals such as sensor data, voltage,camera, etc. Following the inputs, the control box 1814 analyzes theseinputs by using stored algorithms and makes decisions as to what theproper outputs for the speakers 1818 and lights 1816 should be.

For example, if it is determined by MPCA sensing system 1800 that anobject is becoming closer to MP 100, MPCA sensing system 1800 may causespeakers 1818 to emit a sound that increases as the object becomescloser. Further, in some embodiments, the lights 1816 may change colorto indicate that an object is too close to MP 100 during transport.Essentially, MPCA sensing system uses takes the camera (video camera1802) and sensor data (proximity sensors 1804) from the end of the MPand displays different colors based on the proximity to an object.Furthermore, the control box 1814 transfers video and sensor data to atablet 1820 mounted on a forklift via a wireless and/or USB connection.

In some embodiments, the MPCA sensing system 1800 may also comprise avideo camera 1822 attached to a front portion of actuating attachment1822. The video feed from video camera 1822 can be supplied to tablet1820 to aid the forklift driver and aligning male QM connector 1812 withfemale QM connector 1812.

The embodiment of MPCA sensing system 1800 shown in FIG. 18B issubstantially similar in function to that described with respect to FIG.18A with certain differences. First, in this embodiment, a directelectrical and data connection is provided between video camera 1802,proximity sensors 1804, and female QM connector 1810 without the needfor distribution board 1808. Further, in this embodiment, tablet 1820handles the functions of the control box 1814 depicted in FIG. 18A.Thus, in this embodiment, tablet 1820, located on the forklift, receivesdata from video camera 1802, proximity sensors 1804 (wired orwirelessly) and generates the appropriate outputs. Further, tablet 1820controls the outputs of lights 1816 and speakers 1818. And, like in FIG.18A, tablet 1820 also receives the video feed from video camera 1822provided on actuating attachment 1822.

FIGS. 19A-19B depict front and rear views of an embodiment of female QMconnector 1810. As depicted in FIG. 19A, female QM connector 1810 has arectangular housing 1902. An angled recess 1904 on a front face ofrectangular housing 1902 has a data connector 1906 at its center. Angledrecess 1904 has four inward-facing angled walls to male QM connector1812 to the center of angled recess 1904 as it is inserted.

FIG. 19B depicts a rear view of female QM connector 1810 withrectangular housing 1902 shown in phantom. Data connector 1906 ismounted to face plate 1908 and protrudes through circular opening 1910into angled recess 1904. A front of a first set of inner cylindricaltubes 1912 are bolted within rectangular housing 1902. Each innercylindrical tube 1912 is slidably connected within two outer cylindricaltubes 1914. A rear cap 1916 connected to each inner cylindrical tube1912 prevents inner cylindrical tubes 1912 from becoming disengaged fromouter cylindrical tubes 1914. Two springs 1918 surrounding innercylindrical tubes bias rectangular housing 1902 away from face plate1908 and allow for a connection to be maintained between female QMconnector 1810 and male QM connector 1812 over a wider distance (e.g.,because springs 1918 can compress). A plurality of bolts 1920 are usedto secure female QM connector 1810 to MP 100. Preferably, female QMconnector 1810 is mounted to MP 100 as depicted in FIG. 20.Specifically, female QM connector 1810 is preferably mounted to theimmediate left or right of T-bar 112.

FIG. 21A depicts a front view of male QM connector 1812 comprising dataconnector 2102 (mates with data connector 1906) within angled housing2104. Angled recess 1904 guides angled housing 2104 to ensure that dataconnector 2102 mates with data connector 1906 when fully inserted. Uponfull insertion, a plurality of springs 2106 on male QM connector 1812are compressed as are springs 1918 on female QM connector 1810 exposingfemale data connector 1906 which was previously recessed. This allows anelectrical connection to be made between data connector 2102 and dataconnector 1906. A plurality of springs 2106 connects angled housing 2104to face plate 2108. Springs 2106 and springs 1918 allow for a connectionto be maintained and lessen the wear and tear on female QM connector1812 and male QM connector 1812.

Bolts 2110, inserted through face plate 2108, connected male QMconnector 1812 to actuating attachment 1200. FIG. 22 depicts male QMconnector 1812 attached to actuating attachment 1200. Specifically, maleQM connector 1812 is attached to actuating attachment 1200 preferablyjust to the right or the left of hydraulically actuated hook 1222.

While the present invention has been described with respect to what ispresently considered to be the preferred embodiments, it is to beunderstood that the invention is not limited to the disclosedembodiments. To the contrary, the invention is intended to cover variousmodifications and equivalent arrangements included within the spirit andscope of the appended claims. The scope of the following claims is to beaccorded the broadest interpretation so as to encompass all suchmodifications and equivalent structures and functions.

What is claimed is:
 1. A movable platform comprising: a frame; a movabledrawbar extending through an opening in a first side of the frame; acoupling assembly coupled to a first end of the drawbar; a connectionplate coupled to a second end of the drawbar, wherein the connectionplate extends in a direction perpendicular to a moving direction of thedrawbar in a T-shaped configuration; and a plurality of ramp guideassemblies coupled to the connection plate for deploying or retractingrollers based on a moving direction of the drawbar, wherein theconnection plate is contained within a rectangular channel formed inbeams of the frame, wherein a length of the rectangular channel limitsmovement of the connection plate from a first position to a secondposition when the force is exerted on the drawbar, and wherein thelength of the rectangular channel prevents the coupling assembly fromentering the opening in the frame.
 2. The movable platform according toclaim 1, wherein the connection plate is widest in a middle of theconnection plate and tapers towards ends of the connection plate.
 3. Themovable platform according to claim 1, wherein the coupling assembly isa T-bar.
 4. The movable platform according to claim 1, wherein thecoupling assembly is a lunette eye.
 5. The movable platform according toclaim 1, wherein each ramp guide assembly comprises: a plurality of rampguides; and a plurality of ramp connectors, with each ramp guideremovably coupled to at least one ramp connector.
 6. The movableplatform according to claim 1, wherein the connection plate has onerounded side and angled side with a flat portion.
 7. The movableplatform according to claim 1, wherein the frame comprises at leastthree longitudinal beams and at least three cross-beams.
 8. The movableplatform according to claim 7, wherein the wherein the plurality oflongitudinal beams comprises at least one obround channel extendingacross a width of the movable platform.
 9. The movable platformaccording to claim 1, wherein a thickness of the connection plate isless than a thickness of the rectangular channel.
 10. The movableplatform according to claim 1, further comprising: a plurality of fixedroller assemblies located at opposite ends of the movable platform. 11.The movable platform according to claim 1, wherein at least a portion ofthe frame is covered by recessed decking.